ìAlways on the goî: A qualitative study of the perceptions ofcardiovascular disease risk among Latino cab drivers

Background:The taxicab industry is a burgeoning occupation that predominantlyemploys immigrant males from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Factors such assedentary nature, environmental factors, high stress coupled with socioeconomicfactors may increase cardiovascular disease risk among taxicab drivers. Latinos, agrowing immigrant population make up approximately 20% of this industry. However,few studies focus on their experiences as cab drivers or on the factors that mayincrease their cardiovascular risks.Methods:This was an ethnographic qualitative study. Data was collected viaindividual interviews combined with Go?Alongs. The Go?Along is an observationalqualitative method whereby researchers accompany participants during routineactivities and make observations. Interviews and observations were transcribed andcoded to identify emerging themes.Results:Thirty?two Latino male cab drivers participated; their mean age was 45 + 12years; 47% did not finish high school; and 63% earned $30 000 or less. Time andstress emerged as dominant themes. Time constraints posed a barrier to healthyeating and physical activity. Drivers reported stress from constantly worrying abouttheir finances and personal safety. Drivers also described stress from the physical tollof driving on the body. Go?Alongs supported these themes and identified socialinteractions and environmental factors that could be leveraged for health promotion.Conclusions:This study provided an opportunity for cab drivers to describe theirperspectives on reasons why their occupation was associated with a high risk forcardiovascular disease. The Go?Alongs contributed to the understanding of the socialand environmental context that characterized cardiovascular risks in this occupation.KEYWORDScardiovascular disease risks, Go?Alongs, immigrant health, Latino health, minority menís health,qualitative study, taxicab drivers